Located in Naegok-dong, Gangneung, Sinboksaji is the site of Sinboksa Temple, founded by Master Beomil. Based on the layout of the building sites and the style of the remaining Buddhist statues, it is estimated to date back to the early Goryeo Dynasty. It is a historically significant site showing stylistic changes prevalent in the Yeongdong region at that time. The site preserves the Three-story Stone Pagoda and the Seated Stone Bodhisattva, both designated as National Heritages.

Within a small temple site surrounded on three sides by tall pine forests, there are a three-story stone pagoda and a bodhisattva statue that relatively well-preserve their ancient forms. Looking at the bodhisattva statue, which has remained in one spot for a thousand years while the temple itself disappeared, evokes a sense of reverence and nostalgia. We recommend taking a mental time-travel to when these masterpieces were first created.

To reach Sinboksaji, head from Gangneung city center toward Kwandong University in Naegok-dong and enter a small path on the left before reaching the Gangneung Public Health Center. Unlike many other temple sites, the pagoda and bodhisattva here are in remarkably complete condition. Studying the styles of pagodas and statues by era beforehand will make your appreciation of our ancestors' artistic sense even more meaningful.